Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will transport your taste buds straight to the vibrant streets of India! Our "Chicken Braised in Cardamom Sauce" is not just a meal; it's an experience bursting with aromatic flavors and rich textures that will leave you craving more. With tender chicken thighs enveloped in a creamy coconut milk sauce infused with the exotic essence of cardamom, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends. In just under an hour, you can create a mouthwatering feast that’s perfect for any occasion. Ready to tantalize your palate? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: Indian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 2 teaspoons ground cardamom
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken by patting the thighs dry with paper towels and seasoning generously with salt on both sides.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Carefully place chicken thighs skin-side down in the hot oil and sear for 5-6 minutes until the skin becomes golden brown and crispy.
- Flip the chicken and cook the other side for an additional 3-4 minutes, then remove the thighs from the pan and set aside.
- In the same pan, add chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and slightly golden, about 4-5 minutes.
- Sprinkle ground cardamom over the onions and stir to release its aromatic oils, cooking for an additional 30 seconds.
- Pour in coconut milk, stirring to combine with the onions and cardamom, creating a fragrant sauce.
- Return the chicken thighs to the pan, nestling them into the sauce, and reduce heat to low.
- Cover the pan and simmer gently for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Remove the lid and let the sauce reduce for an additional 5 minutes if desired, to thicken slightly.
- Serve hot, spooning the cardamom-infused sauce over the chicken thighs, accompanied by rice or naan bread.
Tips
- Choose the Right Chicken: Opt for bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for maximum flavor and moisture. The skin will crisp up beautifully during cooking, adding a delightful texture to the dish.
- Sear for Perfection: Make sure your oil is hot enough before adding the chicken. A good sear locks in juices and creates a delicious golden crust that enhances the overall flavor.
- Cardamom Control: Ground cardamom is potent; a little goes a long way! Start with the recommended amount and adjust to your taste if you prefer a stronger flavor.
- Coconut Milk Consistency: For a richer sauce, use full-fat coconut milk. If you want a lighter version, you can opt for light coconut milk, but keep in mind it may alter the creaminess of the sauce.
- Simmer Gently: Once you add the chicken back to the pan, keep the heat low and allow it to simmer gently. This ensures the chicken cooks evenly and absorbs all the aromatic flavors.
- Serve with Style: This dish pairs wonderfully with fluffy basmati rice or warm naan bread. Don't forget to spoon that luscious cardamom sauce generously over your chicken for an extra flavor boost!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 26g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 130mg
